My 1st sargent loaned me to the Blue Dragon division in Vietnam. When I showed, they said, "You must be hungry. Here's some of our traditional eats." When I raised the kimchee I saw everyone watching from the corner of their eyes. I thought, "Oh, I am going to know pain." It has the scovile number of molten lava.

So I had to eat and smile. When I asked for some hot sauce, I was in! To my sargent's dissapointment they treated me like royalty, and returned me in working order at the end of the operation.

I've loved Korean food ever since. Living in Northern VA there is plenty of choice. There is a Korean grocery in Sterling VA with what can only be described as a wall o' kimchee. More types and brands than you can shake a (chop) stick at.

It'd be fun if one of the local resturants offered a kimchee tasting menu!